Inflammation in itself is not to be considered as a disease . . . and in disease, where it can alter the diseased mode of action, it likewise leads to a cure; but where it cannot accomplish that solitary purpose . . . it does mischief - John Hunter, A Treatise on the Blood, ITfIlammation, and Gunshot Woundr (London, 1794)1 As we reached the millennium, we recognized the gap between our scientific knowledge of biologic processes and our more limited clinical capabilities in the care of patients. Our science is strong. Molecular biology is powerful, but our therapy to help patients is weaker and more limited. For this reason, this book focuses on the problems of multiple organ failure (MOF), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and systemic inflammatory response syndrome is, patients who have severe injuries; require major, (SIRS) in high-risk patients, that overwhelming operations; or have serious illnesses requiring intensive care; patients who have diseases elsewhere, in other organs or systems, that limit their capabilities to survive a new insult; and patients who are elderly or at high risk for sepsis or other complications. These are the patients who need our help. They need the advances in science, in molecular biology, immunology, pathophysiology, biochemistry, genetics, high technology, and other areas of maximum support at the bedside. These advances could potentially have the greatest impact on improving patient care.

Surgical Infections provides a comprehensive, practical and timely review of latest best practice in the prevention and management of infection in the surgical patient. This highly illustrated text covers the full range of infections that pose such a challenge in the care of patients undergoing a surgical procedure. From community-acquired infections to nosocomial infections at anatomic sites remote from the operation, the book provides authoritative guidance on how to identify and manage infectious complications in surgical care. The book opens with a summary of relevant basic science before discussing infections by body region, by system and by pathogen. Each highly focussed chapter is written by a leader in the field and covers relevant pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Provides a definitive 'go to' reference for trainees and practicing surgeons, as well as internists and infectious disease physicians Covers essential basic science and the latest diagnostic and management techniques Arranged by anatomic site, body system, and causative agent as appropriate, with chapters devoted to particularly complex issues such as surgical site and hospital-acquired infections